With January coming to a close, it's a good time to reflect on how our New Year Resolutions are coming along. Did you make any resolutions?
After several years of unrest, it really does feel like a brand new fresh start, where we promise ourselves we’ll be healthier, happier and more productive. But what happens when we hit the mid-January slump? More often than not, the reason we don’t keep up with our New Year resolutions is because they become less of a priority; i.e. we forget about it. At least until someone asks you about it or we eventually reach the next Christmas only to be reminded that somehow we’ve got the same resolution as the year before…
Here are a few steps to make sure you maintain your goals; whatever your resolution, with a little bit of effort, this can most definitely be the year for you!
Stick it out – literally!
If your resolution is a physical one – like most of us, losing weight and eating cleaner – then you’ve got to find ways of reminding yourself of why you wanted to make that change in the first place. What do most of us do when we’re getting ready? Look in the mirror, of course! Stick some sticky notes on or around your mirror (or anywhere else it’s likely to catch your eye!) with some motivational phrases and reminders so those determined feelings that had you ready for change on January 1st will stay with you.
Put it in the diary, download a journaling app, or set yourself an alarm
If you have a diary, use it. If you prefer to use a tablet or smart phone, then there are many free journalling apps available. You can even set yourself a daily alarm to remind yourself to take action on your resolution. With busy lives it’s hard to make time for even the things we know we must do to help ourselves. However, it’s how you prioritise that makes the difference; if you want it, you’ve got to make time for it. Whatever the resolution, whether it’s the gym or starting/maintaining a new hobby, allocate some time each week in your diary for it in advance so you know you’ve got no excuse.
You’re more likely to stick something out if you’ve got a friend/family member involved so ask around and see if you can find a New Year resolution buddy. You’ll help each other so when one of you is slacking or feeling like giving up, the other will motivate you to get back on track. They don't have to do your resolution with you, but just encourage you through text to carry on with your goal and recognise how well you are doing.
Think of a resolution that is either fun, or connects with your 'ideal self'. This brilliant article from Stanford University has some really strong insights into setting and maintaining resolutions. If you have been struggling to keep momentum this month, have a read through this article as it may help you adjust your resolutions for success.
The more rest you have, the happier and more motivated you’ll feel the next day, increasing your productivity, drive and enthusiasm. If you’re feeling lethargic and groggy, you won’t achieve your goals. Be good to yourself; have those early nights, get your 7-8 hours of sleep and wake up early, ready to face the day. Trouble sleeping? Try one of our recommended blackout blinds – the easyblackout kit with removable frame fasteners – it’ll have you drifting off in no time!
